Why A2L Refrigerant

On January 1, 2025, the American Innovation and Manufacturing Act of 2020 enacted new standards for manufacturing HVAC refrigerants to help address potent greenhouse gases and their effects on climate change. The new standard calls for all R-410A refrigerant and R-410A type equipment to no longer be manufactured and all equipment manufactured going forward to use the new A2L refrigerant.

What is A2L Refrigerant?

With HFCs discontinued, the new types of refrigerants are classified as A2L. A2L stands for (A) Nontoxic, (2) Flammable, and (L) Low burning velocity. The two A2L classified refrigerants now available are R-454B and R-32. Similarly, the A2L refrigerants are colorless and odorless. These new refrigerants are highly praised because, while more environmentally friendly, they are still just as effective for adequate cooling and heating. Because of this, most HVAC manufacturers started transitioning to R-454B and R-32 before 2025. The R-454B refrigerant and compatible equipment are now available for purchase, and the R-410A is officially no longer being made.

Why the Shift to A2L Refrigerant?

Until now, refrigerants have traditionally contained hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) or hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases. The HCFC refrigerant you may be familiar with is R-22, which began phasing out in 2010 and was replaced by the HFC-type refrigerant we use today, R-410A. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated that all manufacturers stop production of R410-A equipment and switch refrigerants as of January 1, 2025. The new A2L refrigerants have zero ozone depletion potential, and their GWP (Global Warming Potential) is 78% lower compared to R-410A. An undeniable improvement!

What Does This Mean for Homeowners?

All refrigerants have a different chemical makeup; therefore, they react differently, have different pressure points and boiling points, etc. Because of this, changes and upgrades are needed to accommodate the different refrigerant properties and safety considerations involved. Depending on the age of your system, you may have R-22 refrigerant (which was commonly used until 2010) or R-410A refrigerant (used from 2010 onwards). This means that when your central air system needs to be replaced, it must use newer, eco-friendly refrigerants. While you can still repair an air conditioning unit that uses an older refrigerant, this is contingent on that refrigerant being available, costs could be higher, and the time to get your system repaired could take longer based on limited supply. If you’re considering a new system, look for units designed for the next generation of refrigerants, like R-32 or R-454B. R-22 refrigerant will only remain available for a limited time after January 1, 2025. These changes do not impact gas furnaces since they are not part of the refrigeration cycle in an HVAC system.

Conclusion

Homeowners should consider the potential costs and challenges of servicing a discontinued unit, as parts for such units may become obsolete, and discontinued refrigerants may be in high demand. This change will only affect refrigerant products, such as air conditioners, heat pumps, air handlers, and package units. If you’re considering an HVAC replacement, you’re wise to do your research and keep yourself informed. There will be some R-410A equipment still in inventory past January 1, 2025, but only for a short while. While some manufacturers chose to slow down production of R-410A equipment in anticipation of this change, others did not and still have a large amount of R-410A equipment in stock that they may try to sell you. New systems often come with improved efficiency, which could lower your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint, as well as qualify you for HVAC tax credits. Pro Tip: Schedule a check-up to ensure your system is in good shape and ready for the transition. Planning ahead will help you stay cool—literally and figuratively! We can help guide you through the tax credit process and make sure you get the system you really need. The HVAC industry has been preparing for 2025; now, the focus is on you!